Over the last 20 years, the ACMF has brought the benefits of music to more than 20,000 children across Australia through our school music programs.
Provided over $1,300,000 worth of instruments, for free
Delivered over 280,000 free music lessons
Currently impacting up to 4,500 children per year
ACMF is raising the bar on the equity gap by delivering music to children who would otherwise miss out.
Two thirds of Australian primary schools and one third of secondary students do not have access to a school music education. As a result, a quality music education has become the preserve of the wealthy and talented few.
Across Australia, a dedicated team of ACMF teaching musicians motivate, educate and inspire children and youth through our free, long-term weekly music programs in schools with high levels of disadvantage.
It’s more than music; principals, teachers and students have told us our programs have a tangible impact and are proven to increase school attendance, focus on lessons, self-esteem and resilience.
Video Case Studies
The impact of the ACMF Music Program in schools
In 2022 we commissioned an Impact Study to measure the impact of our music programs in schools. The study drew on first-hand experiences and perspectives of teachers (both generalist schoolteachers and ACMF Teaching Musicians), principals, and students. The study found our music program led to academic learning benefits and school engagement more broadly, along with increasing social skills and emotional development:
%
Agree that ACMF music lessons make children feel good about themselves
%
Say that ACMF music lessons increase children’s resilience when faced with new challenges
%
Agree that ACMF music lessons boost children’s confidence to learn and do new things
%
Agree that ACMF music lessons increase interest and abilities for further education
%
Say that ACMF music lessons positively impact social interactions and peer acceptance
%
Say that ACMF music lessons contribute to an increase in school attendance
Enquire about an ACMF Music Program at your school →
Crisis Support
ACMF also provides music programs and free instruments to schools in communities impacted by tragedy and natural disasters. This includes communities affected by the 2009 Victoria Bushfires and 2020 NSW Mid North Coast Bushfires.
Our music programs proven benefits to wellbeing, resilience, connection and self-expression are well suited to contribute to children’s emotional healing and wellbeing in times of tragedy.
